Sports. Honestly. Since 2011

Resilient Seattle Sounders produce major comeback victory over Minnesota, 3-2

The Seattle Sounders FC were never out, but they were down to Minnesota United FC. A major comeback has them going back to the MLS Cup Final against Columbus.
Seattle Sounders FC MLS Cup Final

Seattle, Washington — If you are new to MLS, there’s one thing you should know about the Seattle Sounders FC. You should never bet against Seattle while the match is still happening. The Seattle Sounders are truly the epitome of the statement, “It’s not over until it’s over.”

Minnesota United now knows that saying, because they had to learn it the hard way.

Seattle elected to not change their lineup heading into the Western Conference final against Minnesota. Frankly, the visiting side didn’t change their lineup either. It paid off for Minnesota early, as Emanuel Reynoso scored a stunning free kick in the 29th minute. Then, early in the second half, the Loons picked up another goal off Bakaye Dibassy.

It almost seemed like Minnesota had all the momentum — almost.

The Sounders had their chances, with Jordan Morris hitting the post and Raúl Ruidíaz skying a shot into the stands. However, after a goal from Ruidiaz was called back, the Sounders were scrambling to find a way past Loons goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair. The source came from an unlikely hero: Will Bruin.

Bruin, a super substitute for the Sounders, originally deflected a shot from his teammate Ruidiaz. However, he was able to pick up the rebound and slot it past St. Clair for the first of three unanswered goals. Then, as time dwindled down in the second half, Ruidíaz scored on an angle, which he positioned himself on a corner kick.

It almost seemed like the match would head into extra time, but Gustav Svensson — who didn’t start and showed visible frustration on the bench — didn’t let that happen. The Swedish native stunned the Loons with a goal in the 93rd minute, crushing the dreams of Adrian Heath and his players.

Three Takeaways from Seattle Sounders vs. Minnesota United

  1. It might be time for Xaiver’s return: Shane O’Neill was the unlikely hero against FC Dallas. However, the centerback had a rough evening against a powerful attack from Minnesota. He also had a foul that could have easily been a red card. However, the VAR elected to stick with the yellow. With international Xavier Arreaga back from Ecuador, the Sounders should seriously consider sticking him next to Yeimar Gomez Andrade for the final.
  2. The Alex Roldan experiment is up: Alex Roldan is a capable starting right back in MLS. However, it’s understandable to still see some nerves. He’s a young player and doesn’t have a lot of MLS Playoff experience. Once Kelvin Leerdam entered the match for Roldan, the attack opened up for the Sounders. Don’t be surprised to see Leerdam take back his starting role in Columbus.
  3. Brad Smith vs. Nouhou: All three talking points are about the Sounders defense. That’s what lagged against Minnesota, so it should make sense. Nouhou is always a risky player to start. He’s a yellow card waiting to happen, sprinkled with some good runs up the flank. However, the Sounders need someone reliable and dependable. Brad Smith could be the starter on Saturday.

Looking ahead to MLS Cup vs. Columbus

Due to PPG, the MLS Cup Final will be held at MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday at 8 p.m. EST. Columbus topped the New England Revolution to secure their home final. However, they have a huge mountain to climb against Seattle, who are going to their fourth final in the last five years.

Share:

More Posts

Send Us A Message